Goodbye, Winter. Hello, Spring!

Spring is officially on the horizon (come on March 20th!). While we're all ready for warmer temperatures and longer days it's important to check and maintain your plumbing systems. Read on for a few quick tips to protect your home from plumbing problems.

Check for Leaks

Look at all faucets and toilets for leaks. Something as simple as a dripping sink can add up to gallons of waster water .. which can lead to water damage and smelly mold.

• Visually inspect faucets and toilets for obvious drips or leaks

• Add 6 drops of food coloring to your toilet tank - if the toilet is leaking the color will appear in the bowl within 30 minutes.

• Inspect any accessible pipes in basements and below sinks for leaks. Also, check the surrounding area for signs of slow water damage such as water stains, damp areas, and musty smells.

• Inspect the water line running to your toilet for leaks from the wall to the toilet.

Clean your Drains

Don't forget to spring clean your drains along with the rest of your house. Over time gunk and debris can build up which can cause an unsightly odor or even worse ... an untimely clog which will warrant a repair. Keep your drains free flowing by running hot water for 3 minutes accompanied by bleach.

Your Appliances Need Love too!

Don't forget to check in on your trusty appliances. Consider a replacement to ensure that you are getting the most energy-efficiency for your $$$.

• Check your settings on your hot water heater. Make sure that it is set no higher than 120°F to prevent burns and reduce energy use. We'd recommend replacing your hot water heater if it is ten years or older to avoid unnecessary damage and an untimely service call.

• Check your dishwasher, washing machine, and ice maker supply hoses for bulges or leaks. Easily replace any hose that shows signs of weakness or are older than ten years. We recommend stainless steel hoses wherever possible (they are more reliable and less prone to bursting).

• Clean out your washing machine lint trap (if equipped). No need to have this back up and cause an unnecessary replacement!

Call us to schedule an inspection if you're unable to perform these checks on your own or want to make sure that your systems are working 100%.